Continuing the Tradition of Father's Day at the Y

More than a century ago, Sonora Louis Smart Dodd aspired to create a holiday to honor fathers. Dodd, the daughter of a single father and Civil War veteran, was inspired by a Mother's Day sermon and wondered why there was no holiday for fathers. After securing support from ministers in Spokane, Wash., her idea came to fruition with the first Father's Day celebration at the Spokane YMCA on June 19, 1910.

On Sunday, June 16, the Camarillo Family YMCA Hiji Center joins the nation in celebrating Father's Day and recognizing the impact fathers and adult male role models make in children's lives. Nationally, one out of three children lives in a home without their biological father, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. And, societal factors such as unemployment, work-life balance or a lack of resources can affect fathers' ability to seek support in strengthening their parenting skills and more fully engaging in the lives of their children. The Y remains dedicated to providing resources and opportunities for fathers to further involve themselves in the well-being and development of their children.

"One way to improve child well-being is to increase the proportion of children growing up with involved, responsible, and committed fathers and adult male role models," said Rebecca Bleeker, Community Program Director at the Camarillo Y. "Father's Day reminds us why it's important to provide fathers with the support they need to be the best parents and caregivers they can be."

Studies show that children with close relationships with their fathers and other adult male role models have more self-confidence and exhibit less depression, perform better academically and engage in significantly less drug and alcohol use.

The Camarillo Family YMCA offers Adventure Guides, a program that fosters understanding and companionship between children and their caregivers. This year long program is $45 to members of the Camarillo YMCA and $85 for the community.

Every month will have a special event designed to promote parent-child bonding. There are three planned camping trips as well as monthly special events including a Dodgers game, Pinewood derby, and caroling.

To learn more about Adventure Guides, contact Rebecca Bleeker at 805-484-0423 or rebecca.bleeker@ciymca.org, or visit www.ciymca.org/adventure-guides.

This story is contributed by a member of the community and is neither endorsed nor affiliated with Ventura County Star.